Business

Curriculum Vision

To inspire students to become commercially aware, analytical, and enterprising individuals who can understand and evaluate the complexities of modern business environments. The course aims to develop confident decision-makers who can apply business concepts to real-world situations, think strategically, assess opportunities and risks, and appreciate the impact of business activity on individuals, organisations, society, and the wider global economy. Through the study of contemporary business issues and authentic contexts, students are encouraged to become independent learners who are well prepared for higher education, employment, and active participation in an increasingly dynamic and interconnected business world.

Curriculum Intent

The curriculum is designed to develop students' understanding of how businesses operate, make decisions, and respond to internal and external influences within local, national, and global markets. Through the study of marketing, finance, operations, human resources, strategy, and global business students build analytical, quantitative, and evaluative skills that enable them to investigate real business issues and make informed judgements. The course encourages learners to think critically about business behaviour, assess the impact of economic and social change, and develop the commercial awareness required for higher education, apprenticeships, and careers in a wide range of business-related fields


A video introduction to our Business and Economics courses in LPGS6 (our co-educational Sixth Form) 

 

 

Course Description:

Students are introduced to business through the themes of marketing and people and managing business activities in Year 12. Throughout the course, students will develop knowledge of core business concepts and apply them to existing businesses, developing a broader understanding of how organisations work. In Year 13, students study themes of business decisions and strategy, and global business, requiring them to take a more strategic view of business opportunities and issues.

Skills Required:

A commitment to hard work, the ability to undertake independent research, numeracy skills, critical thinking, evaluation and analytical skills.

Method of Assessment:

This is assessed through 100% external examinations at the end of the two-year course. The Business A-Level qualification consists of three external papers as set out below:

Paper 1 (Theme 1 & 4) – 35% of the final grade

Paper 2 (Theme 2 & 3) – 35% of the final grade

Paper 3 (all Themes in context of a specific industry) – 30%

Progression:

After this qualification, you can progress directly to employment; however, it is likely that you will do so via University or a Degree Apprenticeship. Areas of employment include junior business roles in marketing, administration, finance, events management, HR, marketing and other related areas in the business sector, including higher apprenticeships.

Course Description:

Vocational qualifications are ideal for students who want to learn by doing and who prefer continuous assessment to end of course exams. You also know your results as you progress through the course rather than waiting for results day. Students will be assessed through both external examinations and internally assessed coursework units covering the business environment, working in business, customers and communication, marketing and market research and principles of project management.

 

Unit Title Extended Certificate in Business Diploma in Business Exam (E) / Coursework (C)
Business Environment Y Y E
Business Decisions   Y E
Marketing and Market Research Y Y C
Marketing Strategy   Y C
Marketing Campaign Y Y C
Principles of Project Management   Y C
Working in Business Y Y E
Change Management   Y E
Customers and Communication Y Y C
Delivering a Business Project   Y C

 

Skills Required:

A commitment to hard work, the ability to undertake independent research, meet deadlines and work as part of a team.

Method of Assessment:

There are a variety of assessment methods during the course:

  • Written assignments based on real businesses

  • Traditional exams based on business case studies

  • For some practical tasks you will be assessed by the teacher observing you

Progression:

After this qualification, you can progress directly to employment however, it is likely that you will do so via study at University or joining a Degree Apprenticeship. Areas of employment include junior business roles in marketing, administration, finance, events management, HR, marketing and other related areas in the business sector.